Congressman Ralph Abraham took time on the House floor to honor Ruston resident Adolf Wesselhoeft, who is now legally blind from exposure to agent Orange from flying bombers during the Vietnam War.

Abraham says the Ruston resident is the son of German immigrants. He and his family were forced into a US internment camp during World War II before being traded to the Germans in 1944 for American POW’s. Abraham says during that difficult time Wesselhoeft's love for his country did not fade.

“Seeking shelter in bunkers, and despite those experiences, ‘Wes’ remained a true American Patriot, he was committed to coming back home to the United States of America.”

Following the war Wesselhoeft started saving money to return home to America. Abraham says “Wes” bought the cheapest passage to the United States available.

“Upon arriving in New York he went straight to the recruiting office to enlist in the United States Air Force.”

Abraham says after he spoke with the veteran he is excited to see the history of German internment camps in the US be recognized.

“His service to his country as well as the horrors he and his family suffered in Germany will never be forgotten.”